NTSB urges improved passenger rail oversight

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following a series of accidents, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) urged federal regulators to improve oversight of rail transit systems and urged logistical improvements to prevent train passenger deaths and injuries in crashes, Reuters reports.

NTSB Chairman Christopher Hart said at a press conference that U.S. mass transit has "gone for decades without any systematic oversight." The Board suggested that creating and enforcing safety standards and accountability in rail safety oversight will compel transit agencies to address safety issues and increase system maintenance.

The board also said train deaths could be prevented with improved railcar crashworthiness, including better window retention. For the full story, click here.